The Cat Gallery
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
A charming independent gift shop in York's historic city centre dedicated entirely to feline-themed merchandise. Since 2001, The Cat Gallery has curated an extensive collection of cat-themed jewellery, clothing, accessories, home décor, and collectibles. Located on Low Petergate near York Minster, the shop is run by passionate cat lovers and features a first-floor Lucky Cat Shop. Perfect for cat enthusiasts seeking unique gifts or personal treasures.
A brief summary to The Cat Gallery
- 45 Low Petergate, York, YO1 7HT, GB
- Click to display
- Click to display
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the week or during quieter hours to enjoy a more relaxed browsing experience and better opportunities to chat with the friendly staff about their handmade lucky cats and customisation options.
- Don't miss the first-floor Lucky Cat Shop, which features York's Original Lucky Cat and exclusive items not always visible from the ground floor—it's worth exploring the full vertical space.
- Combine your visit with the free York Cat Hunt, which the shop has sponsored since 2011; it's a fun way to explore York's historic sights while celebrating cat culture, with a free gift for children who complete the quiz.
- The shop stocks small gift items that fit easily into luggage, making it ideal for finding souvenirs that won't weigh down your suitcase or travel bag.
- If you can't visit in person, the shop offers online ordering with reliable delivery and careful packaging, making it accessible to cat lovers worldwide.
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Getting There
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Walking from York City Centre
The Cat Gallery is located on Low Petergate, a pedestrian-friendly street in York's historic city centre. From York Railway Station, walk north through the city centre for approximately 10–15 minutes, following signs toward York Minster. Low Petergate is a short street connecting to Stonegate; the shop is clearly marked and easily identifiable. No parking is required; the area is best accessed on foot. The walk passes through York's medieval streets with numerous other independent shops, cafés, and attractions.
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Public Transport to York City Centre
York is well-served by train and bus services. Direct trains run from London King's Cross (approximately 90 minutes, £15–60 depending on advance booking), Manchester (approximately 75 minutes, £10–50), and Leeds (approximately 45 minutes, £8–30). From York Railway Station, the city centre is a 10–15 minute walk. Local buses serve the city, though the shop is most easily reached on foot from the station. Service frequency is high throughout the day.
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Driving and Parking
If driving, York's historic city centre has limited on-street parking. Several car parks are located within a 5–10 minute walk of Low Petergate, including Monk Bar car park and Bootham car park. Parking costs approximately £1.50–2.50 per hour or £8–12 for a full day, depending on the car park. Once parked, the shop is easily reached on foot through the medieval streets. Note that Low Petergate itself is pedestrianised and not accessible by vehicle.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis are readily available from York Railway Station and throughout the city centre. A taxi from the station to Low Petergate costs approximately £6–10 and takes 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Ride-share services operate in York; drop-off points are available near the city centre, though the final approach to the shop is on foot through pedestrianised streets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Restrooms
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Drink Options
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Food Options
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Seating Areas
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Information Boards
The Cat Gallery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Cat Gallery
A Haven for Feline Enthusiasts Since 2001
The Cat Gallery stands as one of York's most beloved independent retailers, established by Peter and Alison in 2001 after they left their corporate careers to pursue their passion for cats and small business ownership. What began as a personal dream has evolved into an iconic destination for cat lovers from across the world. The shop occupies a prime location on Low Petergate, a historic street in York's medieval city centre, placing it within walking distance of major attractions including York Minster and the Shambles.An Extraordinary Range of Cat-Themed Treasures
The Cat Gallery offers an impressively diverse inventory that extends far beyond typical gift shop fare. The collection encompasses cat-themed jewellery including necklaces, earrings, and brooches; clothing such as socks, scarves, and accessories; home décor items; books; buttons; kitchen products; and decorative figurines. A particular highlight is the handmade lucky cat collection, available with customisable collars in various colours and designs, allowing visitors to create personalised pieces. The shop's carefully curated selection ensures that whether you seek a small token gift or a statement piece, something will capture your imagination.The Lucky Cat Shop and Exclusive Offerings
On the first floor, visitors discover The Lucky Cat Shop, which specialises in York's Original Lucky Cat—a distinctive local product that has become synonymous with the city. This dedicated space adds another dimension to the shopping experience, offering items specifically tied to York's cultural heritage. The shop has also served as the proud sponsor of the York Cat Hunt since 2011, a free interactive trail that guides visitors through York's historic sights while celebrating feline culture.Atmosphere and Customer Experience
The shop is renowned for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and exceptionally friendly staff. Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable and personable service, with staff members taking genuine interest in customers and their own cats. The compact yet densely stocked space creates an intimate browsing environment where discovery is part of the charm. The owners, now accompanied by their rescue cats Alfie and Charlie (adopted from Leeds Cat Rescue in 2017), embody the shop's genuine passion for feline welfare and culture.Location and Accessibility in Historic York
Situated at 45 Low Petergate in York's historic city centre, the shop benefits from excellent foot traffic and proximity to other independent retailers, galleries, and attractions. The location places it within the medieval heart of York, surrounded by centuries-old architecture and winding cobbled streets. This positioning makes it an easy addition to any city centre exploration, whether you're visiting York Minster, browsing nearby galleries, or enjoying the area's independent shops and cafés.Explore the best of what The Cat Gallery has to offer
More about York
Explore York, a captivating city where medieval history meets modern charm. Discover York Minster, The Shambles, and a vibrant food scene in this must-visit UK destination.
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